CELEBRITY
Stunning: “Top Taylor Swift-Inspired Events in London”
Whether you’re a fan or not, videos of Taylor Swift have probably dominated your newsfeeds since last year as the pop superstar kicked off her latest tour with a record-smashing leg across the US. You were no doubt flooded by streams of Swifties dressed to the nines in handmade costumes, handing out beaded friendship bracelets (inspired by her song ‘You’re on Your Own, Kid’ from the Midnights album) and profusely crying. Even if you missed that wave, you’d have at least seen the video of a fan listening from outside of Sydney’s Accor Stadium who started sobbing when she heard the first chords of ‘Exile’ about 100 times.
Now, after round one of the Eras Tour in London, which saw Taylor play Wembley Stadium for three nights in June, the capital is gearing up for the next batch – FIVE shows in August. The city had a taste of Taylor Mania in April as the release of her new album The Tortured Poets Department led to Vauxhall pub The Black Dog becoming overloaded with dedicated followers of the singer (ICYMI: The Black Dog was mentioned in a song of the same name, which hinted that the spot was frequented by Taylor’s ex Joe Alwyn). The pub has now launched a merch line off the back of the whole situation – why not, right?
It sounds like more of that kinda thing is on the way as venues across London are launching Taylor Swift-themed events in the run-up to the concerts, so we’ve rounded up the best of the lot below. There are boat parties, guided tours, workshops, exercise classes – restaurants are getting involved – people are even holding conferences. It’s becoming clearer by the day that this summer, London belongs to the Swifties. And, if you’re not quite on board yet, we’ll leave you with this: if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em. You might even get a decent brunch out of it.
Re-live your fave Taylor on tour moments by checking out this free exhibition at Wembley Park’s outdoor photo gallery. The images on display, including moments from the Eras Tour and her 2018 Reputation Tour, showcase everything from her elaborate costumes and set designs to intimate moments with fans.